Mr. Blues (1965)/ Confessin' The Blues

"This CD contains two B.B. King studio efforts, from 1962 and 1965. Offering them back-to-back allows listeners an acute sense of King's rapid maturation and development during what was by all accounts the nexus of the guitarist/vocalist's career. The dozen-song "Mr. Blues" was a haphazard start for King with the contents taken from 3 different recording sessions in a 13-month period. Based on the results, the artist was being presented as a blues shouter, supported by an antiquated big band and/or orchestra. The landmark "Live At The Regal" (1964) is a critical link between these two albums. It essentially redefined King's presence in the (then) modern blues revival. He retained his expressive combo from "Live At The Regal" with Duke Jethro (piano), Leo Lauchie (bass), and Sonny Freeman (drums) who have collectively become increasingly adept at providing King room for his solos. Plus, they generally support -- rather than detract from -- his skills as a vocalist." (Lindsay Planer, Allmusic; 4 uit 5 sterren)